PCB calls for support as Pakistan faces criticism in Men’s ODI World Cup

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requests support from the cricket community and fans for the team in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup after a series of losses.

Advertisement

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued an appeal to the cricketing community and fans to stand behind the Babar Azam-led team during the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, as criticism mounts following three consecutive defeats in the tournament, including an eight-wicket loss to Afghanistan.

Currently, Pakistan, the 1992 champions, occupies the fifth position in the standings after playing five matches, securing two wins, and suffering three losses. Their net run rate is currently in negative territory. The team faces formidable opponents in South Africa, New Zealand, England and Bangladesh in their quest to reach the semifinals.

Pakistan in World Cup 2023

Advertisement

The PCB acknowledged the emotional response and sentiments of cricket enthusiasts following the team’s recent setbacks in the ICC World Cup 2023. In this challenging environment, the board administration expressed its hope for continued support from the cricketing fraternity and fans for Captain Babar Azam and the entire Pakistan cricket team.

The national team still has four crucial matches remaining in the round-robin stage, and the PCB maintains an optimistic outlook that the team will regroup, overcome the setbacks, and deliver positive and effective performances in the upcoming fixtures.

PCB, Babar Azam and team management face criticism

Amid the team’s consecutive defeats, they faced mounting criticism for their on-field performances and strategies. The criticism intensified when PCB Chief Zaka Ashraf reportedly met with several former cricketers to discuss a plan for the national team’s future post the World Cup. In response to media scrutiny directed at Captain Babar Azam and the team management, the PCB’s stance aligns with that of former cricketers, emphasizing that victories and defeats are an inherent part of the game. Captain Babar Azam and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were granted freedom and support in shaping the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023.

Looking ahead, the PCB intends to make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket, based on the team’s performances in the World Cup. Currently, the PCB encourages fans, former players, and stakeholders to stand united behind the team as they strive to make a triumphant comeback in this prestigious event.

Pakistan’s next match in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup is scheduled against the high-flying South Africa at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.